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Choosing a Program

Choosing a study abroad program is exciting for some students, but it can seem overwhelming for others. Whether you are a confident traveler with clear plans in mind or you just want to explore possibilities, the Office of Education Abroad staff are here to guide all students through selecting and applying for programs that will help them achieve their academic, professional, and personal goals. 

Review this page to learn about our different program types, options for program length/term, locations to explore, and even some useful questions to consider about your own preferences.

Program Types

Davidson offers several different types of programs to suit all student needs and interests.  No matter which program type you are interested in, always be careful to read the brochures carefully.
 

Credit-Bearing Programs

Davidson Programs

Group programs led by a Davidson faculty member.  Study and live with a cohort of Davidson students.  Summer and fall semester options available.

Partner Programs

Programs offered by approved study abroad partners, third-party organizations which facilitate study abroad around the world. Semester, academic year, and summer options available.

Domestic Programs

U.S.-based partner programs which offer the opportunity to get out of the Davidson bubble and study away for a semester.  Domestic study offers many of the same benefits as international study.

Non-Credit-Bearing

Travel Registrations

College-affiliated or -funded travel which does not provide academic credit, e.g. research, internships, service learning, etc.  Students doing these activities must register their travel with the College.

Program Length & Term of Travel

Students are eligible to study abroad starting the summer after their first year at Davidson, up until the summer after their junior year.  Under certain circumstances and with advance approval, it may also be possible for first-semester seniors to study abroad.

The variety of program options allows students to find the term that works best for their schedule.  Many Davidson students choose to take part in multiple study abroad experiences.

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Program Locations

While an education abroad experience in Western cultures similar to the United States can be enriching, students should consider the advantages of choosing a less-traditional location to spend a term abroad. Choosing a less common destination may encourage students to examine their own culture more closely and to increase their intercultural skill development.

Studying in non-traditional destinations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America can increase students’ personal and professional outcomes, challenging them in different ways and providing additional opportunities.

View full program list »

Questions to Consider

As you begin thinking about your program options, ask yourself these questions for additional guidance regarding your academics, personal interests, housing preferences, and more.  
 

 

  • Why do you want to study abroad?

  • When will be the best time for you to include an international experience into your time at Davidson?

  • Is program length important?

  • Do you want to take classes in English?

  • Do you need to take specific courses while abroad?

  • Do you want to be in classes with local students and have a broad range of courses from which to choose, or does a program focused on a specific topic with a cohort of students appeal to you?

  • Do you want to conduct research or fieldwork or become engaged in a community project?

  • Do you prefer an urban environment or one that is more rural?

  • What housing options will work for you?

  • Do you have any health or dietary concerns?

  • Are you concerned about how one or more aspects of your identity will be perceived abroad?

  • Do you have any other needs that are important to consider? 



 
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